About the song
“Harper Valley P.T.A.” is an iconic song by Jeannie C. Riley that struck a chord with many upon its release in 1968. Written by the talented Tom T. Hall, the song is a brilliant piece of storytelling set to country music, capturing the spirit and social issues of its time.
The song narrates the story of a young widow, Mrs. Johnson, who receives a letter from the local Parent-Teacher Association (P.T.A.) accusing her of immoral behavior. Rather than cower to the judgmental criticisms, Mrs. Johnson boldly confronts the P.T.A., exposing the hypocrisy and moral failings of its members. This twist of revealing the flaws in those who cast judgment resonated deeply with listeners, making the song both a cultural and musical sensation.
“Harper Valley P.T.A.” was a standout track from the album of the same name, which marked Jeannie C. Riley’s debut. The song achieved remarkable success, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and Hot Country Singles charts. This achievement made Riley the first woman to top both charts with the same song, a testament to the song’s widespread appeal and her compelling performance.
Jeannie C. Riley’s spirited delivery and Hall’s incisive lyrics combined to create a song that not only entertained but also sparked conversations about societal norms and individual freedoms. The song’s impact was so significant that it inspired a 1978 film and a television series, further cementing its place in American pop culture.
“Harper Valley P.T.A.” remains a beloved classic, reflecting a time of social change and the enduring power of music to challenge and inspire. Jeannie C. Riley’s hit continues to be celebrated for its catchy melody, sharp wit, and the empowering message it delivered to a generation.
Video
Lyrics
I wanna tell you all a story ’bout
A Harper Valley widowed wife
Who had a teenage daughter
Who attended Harper Valley Junior High
Well, her daughter came home one afternoon
And didn’t even stop to play
And she said, “mom, I got a note here from the Harper Valley PTA”
Well, the note said, “Mrs. Johnson
You’re wearin’ your dresses way too high
It’s reported you’ve been drinking
And a-running ’round with men and goin’ wild
And we don’t believe you oughta be a-bringin’ up
Your little girl this way”
And it was signed by the Secretary
Harper Valley PTA
Well, it happened that the PTA was gonna meet
That very afternoon
And they were sure surprised
When Mrs. Johnson wore her miniskirt into the room
And as she walked up to the blackboard
I can still recall the words she had to say
She said, “I’d like to address this meeting of the Harper Valley PTA
Well, there’s Bobby Taylor sittin’ there
And seven times he’s asked me for a date
And Mrs. Taylor sure seems to use a lotta ice
Whenever he’s away
And Mr. Baker can you tell us why
Your secretary had to leave this town?
And shouldn’t widow Jones be told to keep
Her window shades all pulled completely down
Well, Mr. Harper couldn’t be here
‘Cause he stayed too long at Kelly’s Bar again
And if you smell Shirley Thompson’s breath
You’ll find she’s had a little nip of gin
And then you have the nerve to tell me
You think that as the mother I’m not fit
Well, this is just a little Peyton Place
And you’re all Harper Valley hypocrites”
No, I wouldn’t put you on because it really did
It happened just this way
The day my mama socked it to the Harper Valley PTA
The day my mama socked it to the Harper Valley PTA